Grilled Chicken Breasts with Fresh Strawberry Salsa Recipe

Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, these are the main protein component of the dish.

Olive oil: Used to brush the chicken breasts, adding moisture and flavor.

Salt: Enhances the overall taste of the chicken and salsa.

Black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor to the chicken.

Strawberries: Fresh and diced, these form the base of the salsa, providing a sweet and tangy flavor.

Jalapeño: Seeded and minced, this adds a spicy kick to the salsa.

Lime juice: Freshly squeezed, it adds acidity and brightness to the salsa.

Cilantro: Chopped, it adds a fresh, herbaceous note to the salsa.

When preparing the strawberry salsa, make sure to dice the strawberries uniformly to ensure even distribution of flavors. For an extra layer of complexity, consider lightly macerating the strawberries with a tiny bit of sugar and lime juice before mixing them with the other ingredients. This will help to release their natural juices and create a more cohesive salsa. Additionally, when grilling the chicken breasts, use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for optimal juiciness and safety.

• boneless, skinless chicken breasts - Substitute with boneless, skinless turkey breasts: Turkey breasts have a similar texture and flavor profile, making them a good alternative for grilling.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it suitable for grilling.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a similar level of seasoning with a slightly different mineral content.

• freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a milder flavor and can be used in the same quantity.

• diced strawberries - Substitute with diced mango: Mango provides a sweet and slightly tangy flavor that complements the salsa well.

• seeded and minced jalapeño - Substitute with seeded and minced serrano pepper: Serrano peppers are slightly hotter but offer a similar flavor profile.

• freshly squeezed lime juice - Substitute with freshly squeezed lemon juice: Lemon juice provides a similar acidity and freshness to the salsa.

• chopped cilantro - Substitute with chopped parsley: Parsley offers a fresh, slightly peppery flavor that can replace cilantro.

• salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has a similar flavor but a different texture, which can be used in the same quantity.

• To store the grilled chicken breasts, allow them to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, place the chicken in an airtight container or wrap each piece tightly with plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• For the fresh strawberry salsa, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It is best consumed within 1-2 days to ensure the strawberries remain fresh and flavorful.

• If you wish to freeze the grilled chicken breasts, let them cool completely. Wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

• To freeze the strawberry salsa, it is recommended to avoid freezing as the texture of the strawberries may change upon thawing, resulting in a mushy consistency. Instead, prepare the salsa fresh when needed.

• When ready to use the frozen grilled chicken breasts, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a microwave on medium power until warm.

• For an extra burst of flavor, you can brush the reheated chicken breasts with a little olive oil and sprinkle some fresh cilantro before serving.

• Always ensure that the chicken is reheated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to eat.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the grilled chicken breasts in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to keep the chicken moist.
  4. Heat for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  5. While the chicken is reheating, prepare a fresh batch of strawberry salsa if needed.
  6. Once heated, top with the strawberry salsa and serve immediately.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Slice the grilled chicken breasts into thinner pieces for quicker reheating.
  2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil.
  3. Add the sliced chicken to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until heated through.
  4. Prepare a fresh batch of strawberry salsa while the chicken is reheating.
  5. Once the chicken is hot, top with the strawberry salsa and serve immediately.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the grilled chicken breasts on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover the chicken with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.
  4. Prepare a fresh batch of strawberry salsa if needed.
  5. Once the chicken is heated, top with the strawberry salsa and serve immediately.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the grilled chicken breasts in the air fryer basket.
  3. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  4. While the chicken is reheating, prepare a fresh batch of strawberry salsa.
  5. Once heated, top with the strawberry salsa and serve immediately.

• Grill: Used to cook the chicken breasts to perfection, giving them a nice char and smoky flavor.

• Tongs: Essential for flipping the chicken breasts on the grill without piercing the meat and losing juices.

• Basting brush: Used to brush olive oil onto the chicken breasts for even seasoning and to prevent sticking.

• Mixing bowl: Where you will combine the ingredients for the fresh strawberry salsa.

• Chef's knife: Ideal for dicing the strawberries and mincing the jalapeño with precision.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe and clean surface for chopping and preparing ingredients.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the olive oil, salt, pepper, and lime juice accurately.

• Spatula: Useful for mixing the strawberry salsa ingredients together evenly.

• Plate: To rest the grilled chicken breasts on after they are cooked and before slicing.

• Serving platter: For presenting the grilled chicken topped with fresh strawberry salsa.

Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill while you prepare the chicken breasts to save time.

Prep ingredients ahead: Dice strawberries and mince jalapeño in advance to streamline the process.

Use a meat thermometer: Ensure the chicken is cooked perfectly without guessing by using a meat thermometer.

Make salsa in bulk: Prepare extra strawberry salsa to use with other dishes throughout the week.

Rest the chicken: Let the grilled chicken rest while you finish setting the table or preparing sides.